Spain 'favourites' says Deschamps ahead of World Cup semi-final showdown

France coach Didier Deschamps has declared Spain the favorites heading into their highly anticipated World Cup semi-final clash, despite his own team's impressive run in the tournament. Deschamps insisted that Spain, the European champions, have consistently shown their strength and will be the underdog on Tuesday.

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Forget about the first game against Cape Verde. Ever since then Spain have confirmed that they are the favourites.

"Ever since then Spain have confirmed that they are the favourites," Deschamps stated at a press conference. He pointed to Spain's formidable attack and defense, noting they have conceded only one goal in their last six or seven matches. Deschamps also recalled France's recent losses to Spain in the European Championship semi-final and the UEFA Nations League.

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Since the beginning, I’ve always said that the fact that people say we’re favourites or not doesn’t mean anything. It doesn’t. It’s not decisive.

Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente responded with a smile, stating that external labels of favoritism hold no weight. "It doesn't. It's not decisive," he told reporters. De la Fuente emphasized that his team is accustomed to pressure and is motivated by the desire to succeed for their nation, regardless of pre-match predictions.

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We are two great national teams facing each other, just as there are two great national teams facing each other in the other semi-final.

Both coaches anticipate a spectacular game, given the offensive quality of both squads. Deschamps acknowledged the threat posed by Spanish winger Lamine Yamal, who has been a key player for Spain, but expressed confidence in France's ability to counter such threats. "We have our own strengths," Deschamps said, adding that while Yamal can make a difference, France has "many solutions" to limit his impact.

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With the quality of the two teams offensively, I think we could think that is going to be a spectacular game.